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Oscar de la Renta’s work and life in Assouline Publishing’s vision

Remembering the gentleman of fashion that passed away Monday night at the age of 82 years. He was battling cancer since 2006.

Oscar de la Renta fashion adventure began in Spain, chez Cristóbal Balenciaga ,after working in Paris at Lanvin finally moving in the 1960s to the United States launching his eponymous ready to wear line and becoming quickly a leading figure on the international fashion scene. After five succesful decades he continues to produce fascinating collections and projects all results of his enduring creative vision.

De la Renta once declared “I want to make clothes that people will wear, not styles that will make a big splash on the runway.” and this is exactly what he did becoming one of the most appreciated and loved fashion designers.His work is loved by every woman from the simple girl next door to American first ladies, like Nancy Reagan and Michelle Obama.

“King of Evening!” Vogue declared him in 1975. “Nobody makes a woman feel more like a woman at night.” And we couldnt agree more!

Now Assouline Publishing celebrates the work and life of the designer in a new album entitled “Oscar de la Renta: The Style,Inspiration and Life of Oscar de la Renta” . The book is actually an updated edition of the original 2002 volume that takes the reader in a beautiful journey of the creative and private life of de la Renta.

In the book’s forward Anna Wintour , fashion titan and friend of the designer, catches the essence of de la Renta’s work : ” Oscar completely understands who he is and who he’s dressing…he never tried to be avantgarde or difficult. He just does really good clothes, never overtly sexy but attractive,colorful and feminine.”